Full-day Cotopaxi
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 3 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Full-day Cotopaxi worth booking?
Full-day Cotopaxi is a 9-hour experience in Quito, Ecuador, from $90 per person. It scores 65 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 3 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 65 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (3)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $90 per person
On our 1-day tour of El Cotopaxi, the largest active volcano in Ecuador and the world. We have the perfect mix between nature and adventure, combining 3 main activities: - Starting with the walk to the José Rivas shelter. - When we get down from the refuge we will go downhill by bicycle (optional but very fun activity) from the upper part of the volcano to the lower part of the park. - Finally, making a stop at Limpiopungo Lagoon, famous for reflecting the area's mountains in its crystalline waters. With its majestic snow-capped summit and imposing presence, it attracts mountaineers and nature lovers alike.
What you get
About this experience
On our 1-day tour of El Cotopaxi, the largest active volcano in Ecuador and the world. We have the perfect mix between nature and adventure, combining 3 main activities: - Starting with the walk to the José Rivas shelter. - When we get down from the refuge we will go downhill by bicycle (optional but very fun activity) from the upper part of the volcano to the lower part of the park. - Finally, making a stop at Limpiopungo Lagoon, famous for reflecting the area's mountains in its crystalline waters. With its majestic snow-capped summit and imposing presence, it attracts mountaineers and nature lovers alike.
What's included
Included
- Certified bilingual Spanish/English guide
- Lunch
- Authorized and comfortable tourist transportation.
- Bicycle use
Not included
- alcoholic beverages
- Extra food and drinks
- Driver Tips
- Tips Guides
What you'll see and do
Quito Old Town
Pick-up at 07h30
30 minutes here
Cotopaxi National Park
Acclimatization. Our first stop is at an elevation of 2,945 meters above sea level (9,662.07 feet) to acclimatize and take photographs.
15 minutes here
Cotopaxi National Park
At the lower part of the volcano we begin with an explanation about the flora and fauna of the place.
30 minutes here
Cotopaxi National Park
Ascent by vehicle to the parking lot.
20 minutes here
Cotopaxi National Park
Hike up to the José Rivas Refuge. This hike offers a unique opportunity to experience high mountain beauty without the need for technical equipment or prior mountaineering experience. Our guided hike takes you through stunning landscapes and panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks.
180 minutes here
Cotopaxi National Park
Downhill cycling (optional)
60 minutes here · Admission included
Laguna de Limpiopungo
Stop at the Limpiopungo Lagoon, perfect setting for photography and contemplation and bird watching.
30 minutes here
Cotopaxi Province
Lunch
60 minutes here
Quito Old Town
Arrival in Quito around 5:00 pm.
2 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Quito
References: 1.- Next to the Santa Catalina de Siena Monastery. 2.- Close to the Sucre School. 3.- Next to the Manuela Saenz Museum.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations.
Ends at
References: 1.- Next to the Santa Catalina de Siena Monastery. 2.- Close to the Sucre School. 3.- Next to the Manuela Saenz Museum.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 2 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Friends Expeditions
Know before you go
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Infants must not sit on laps
- Not recommended for people with heart conditions
- Not stroller accessible
- Not suitable for pets
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Transportation arrangements can be discussed for groups of more than four people. The tour has a small extra cost to pick up from your own accommodation
Photos
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $90 to $190
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 1
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Friends Expeditions, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 65.3.
See everything Friends Expeditions runsWhy this scores 65
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Full-day Cotopaxi: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Quito.
How much does Full-day Cotopaxi cost?
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Prices start at $90 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Quito usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Full-day Cotopaxi take?
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Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Quito is not rushed.
Is Full-day Cotopaxi worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 65 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 3 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Quito, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Full-day Cotopaxi?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Full-day Cotopaxi suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Full-day Cotopaxi?
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Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Quito can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Quito and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Full-day Cotopaxi start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Quito within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Quito?
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On Outty we rank every Quito experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cotopaxi Volcano full day tour with all the entrances, every day, Cotopaxi tour from Quito -horseback ride and hike-NO TOURISTY way, Baños Full Day Tour from Quito Including Entrances and Activities. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Quito?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Quito?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Full-day Cotopaxi?
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Included: Certified bilingual Spanish/English guide; Lunch; Authorized and comfortable tourist transportation; and Bicycle use. Not included: alcoholic beverages; Extra food and drinks; Driver Tips; and Tips Guides. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Full-day Cotopaxi include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 3 listed pickup locations in and around Quito.
What languages is Full-day Cotopaxi offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Full-day Cotopaxi?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Full-day Cotopaxi wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers; Infants must not sit on laps; Not stroller accessible; and Not wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Full-day Cotopaxi if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
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